We had the good fortune of connecting with Steven Mommaerts and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Steven, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
My parents were both in the Military and though I was born in California, only spending four years there, I usually say I grew up in Japan. I ended up living there for fifteen years altogether, before coming back to America in 2014. Having different perspectives from throughout the world allowed me to be more patient and accepting of others’ points of view. The culture overseas is a little less about yourself and more about helping others or a company that you work for. I have taken this concept and included it in my life and how I treat almost everything. Lastly, the big Japan earthquake of 2011 was a big moment of my life and enlightened me on how I saw my life up to that point and how I go about my life now. Everything now is just a cherry on top!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Well, I am Momo Photo. My craft has been developing over the last couple years, but it really took off this year after I started traveling with a group of friends from Twitch (the streaming platform). Being invested in the subjects of which I am taking photos of is more meaningful to me and what led to where I am at today. There are no points on which I don’t think I could grow, so that keeps me hungry and I try to learn and improve every single day.

The biggest thing I want for others to know is that I personally invest into every one of my clients. While ensuring I get the pictures I envision from before any shoot, I also work with the client to ensure they get what they come for as well. While it may take more effort, I want to make sure everyone feels satisfied. Being knowledgeable on the subject or having a personal connection to the client makes everything more rewarding.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re ever having a hard time figuring out what to do, there are plenty of bus or trolley tours throughout Atlanta and will allow you to see the town quickly. Going to downtown Atlanta is the best part of the city. You can go to the Georgia Aquarium and spend hours, go to World of Coca-Cola and learn about why everyone calls all soft drinks Coke, or go to any of the arenas and have a great time. Being downtown, you don’t have to worry about having to visit the same place over and over. There are a variety of restaurants around that area, within walking distance, which makes it easier for you to have new things for each meal. Additionally, I recommend going to any of the live theater shows or parks within the area. Whatever your cup of tea, Atlanta has it for you.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a few parties in which I drew inspiration, gained motivation, and drove me to do better. First and foremost, my father. He is the reason I do everything the way I do and at the level of dedication I do it. @sarahxciii, a friend who invited me to my first convention which started my photography. @basicwitgirl, who was part of the crew that I went to Atlanta with and was one of the more dedicated subjects I photographed. @chaoticneutralgoblin, another dedicated subject and an Atlanta native, her actress background makes her characters come to life. @azureravenwitch, a kind, loving individual who was the first photoshoot I had. Lastly, the whole crew of Dad’s Garage Theatre in Atlanta all deserve some recognition, as they were my first taste of Atlanta and made it a welcoming one at that.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momo.photo.official/

Image Credits
All images were taken by me, Momo Photo.

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